Managing Sleep Apnea with Alternative Treatments

Not everyone likes traditional medicine. They feel a more natural solution is better for the body. Some people with sleep apnea seek alternative treatments as opposed to CPAP or surgery. Homeopathic medicine, yoga, and acupuncture are just a few alternative treatments available.

As with any treatment for a medical condition, caution should be taken when participating and always get a second opinion if something doesn't seen right.

Homeopathic medications are all natural, not synthetic chemicals. These are thought to be healthier than laboratory created medicine. Even with natural remedies, certain medications are well suited for some people, but not others. Homeopaths are trained to assess the whole person and treat accordingly with the proper remedy.

Some sleep apnea alternative treatments and homeopathic remedies include; Sambucus for difficulty breathing or asthma at night, Sulfur for sleep issues and disturbances involving chronic conditions, Opium for those people needing more energy during the day to stay awake, and Arsenicum Album for breathing conditions that get worse at night. There are other medications homeopaths may prescribe depending on individual needs.

Yoga techniques target the whole body, striving for balance. It involves the mind, spirit, and body and creates a healthier you with peace and harmony. Many of the yoga breathing techniques can improve night time breathing problems.

The science of breathing, Pranayama, stresses the importance of proper breathing in our everyday lives. It also claims that what we consciously learn during the day will be remembered while sleeping. We can effectively train ourselves to breathe better in sleep.

Between January 2002 and August 2004 at the Sleep Division, Universidade Federal de Sao Paulo (UNIFESP), Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil, a study was held to assess the benefits of acupuncture in sleep apnea patients. Surprisingly, it was found that acupuncture significantly decreased apneic events in the test group and not the control group.

These findings were against what traditional scientists and doctors assumed they would be. Based on the results of this study, acupuncture seems to be a safe sleep apnea alternative treatment.

Patients with sleep apnea want alternative treatments for many different reasons. Some want a more natural treatment plan, others are searching for a cure out of desperation.

One thing that should be kept in mind while searching for an alternative remedy is that sleep apnea can be deadly. No alternative treatment can make you start breathing again if death occurs. The best course of action would be to try alternative medicine while complying with the CPAP and then slowly attempt to wean off of the positive pressure machine.

Several sleep apnea alternative treatments are acceptable, some are questionable, and many depend on the person. Not all treatments work for everyone. When looking for natural remedies, remember to ensure ongoing health during your search.

Always consult your doctor before beginning any treatment plan. Even if attempts at natural healing do not improve your sleep apnea, most alternative treatments will improve your mental well being.